There is no better place for running than the Jizera Mountains, says Stanislav Řezáč

Jizerská 50 feels like home to him. The legendary cross-country skier Stanislav Řezáč has managed to win the footrace as well – just like his dad did, by the way. Plus he's expanding his hotel located only a few metres away from where the running event will be held. He has swapped his training time for building time. 'It’s my daily routine now,' says Řezáč, who says he is also looking forward to the start of the summer version of the event he loves.

'Jizerská, now that's something I like,' begins this legend among Czech racers. Even though he is no longer among the youngest racers in the field for the Jizerská 50, he once again managed to finish among the world’s elite as the best Czech representative, only a few seconds behind the winner. Řezáč is still in great shape.

'I would like to run a good time at next year’s Jizerská again. Finishing in the top 10 is kind of a little dream of mine, but still, you have to dream in order to improve,' says the Jizera Mountain native determinedly. It is here where he likes to embark not only on cross-country skis, but also on foot. 'In spring and summer, the Jizera Mountains are beautiful. Over the years, I’ve found many great running tracks,' he says.

'I can’t consider myself a passionate runner, but it is part of my training routine from time to time. I don’t measure my running time, I only check how long I’ve been running so that it isn't a mere walk.' Řezáč plans to visit the summer Jizerská 50 RUN, part of the Běhej lesy series. As a special guest, he is going to start one of the runs and award the winners. However, he is not going to be doing any running himself.

'Two weeks before the run, I’m going to be changing the house cladding. Right now, I’m stuccoing and painting. I’m only using my arms and not my legs. I haven't run enough and need to train a bit first,' says this VIP of the Czech skiing world. 'In the back of my head, there’s still this idea of me running again, but I don’t want to promise anything. I will gladly come and see the start. However, whether I’m going to stand among the participants is something to consider later. Maybe it will be a last-minute decision.'

We are looking forward to it, Stanislav. See you on Saturday 31 August in Bedřichov. As for the rest of you, do not forget that you can still register for the 12 km and 23 km runs; the ultramarathon has long been sold out.